Britton Chance

Britton Chance (July 24, 1913 – November 16, 2010) was an American biophysicist and professor emeritus in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics at the University of Pennsylvania. He is renowned for his pioneering work in the field of biophysics, particularly in the development of techniques for measuring the properties of biological tissues.

Early Life and Education

Britton Chance was born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. He showed an early interest in science and went on to study at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his bachelor's degree in 1935. He continued his education at the same institution, obtaining a master's degree in 1936 and a Ph.D. in physical chemistry in 1940. He later earned a second Ph.D. in biology from Cambridge University in 1942.

Career and Research

Chance's career was marked by significant contributions to the field of biophysics. During World War II, he worked on the development of radar technology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Radiation Laboratory. After the war, he returned to the University of Pennsylvania, where he became a professor and conducted groundbreaking research.

One of Chance's most notable achievements was the development of techniques for measuring the oxidation-reduction states of cytochromes in living cells. This work was crucial in understanding cellular respiration and metabolism. He also made significant advancements in the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), which are used to study brain function and muscle metabolism.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Britton Chance received numerous awards and honors. He was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 1952 and received the National Medal of Science in 1974. He was also a member of the American Philosophical Society and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Personal Life

Britton Chance was an accomplished sailor and competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics, where he won a gold medal in sailing. He was also known for his passion for music and played the violin.

Legacy

Britton Chance's contributions to biophysics have had a lasting impact on the field. His work has paved the way for new techniques and technologies that continue to advance our understanding of biological processes. He is remembered as a pioneer in his field and a dedicated educator.

See Also

• Biophysics
• University of Pennsylvania
• Cytochrome
• Magnetic resonance imaging
• Near-infrared spectroscopy